Edited by Dominik Irnich, MD, this clearly written and fully illustrated multi-contributor volume offers practical, comprehensive coverage of the subject area ranging from the latest scientific research findings to practical usage of current manual therapy techniques. Including the latest information from centres of excellence throughout the world, this new book is suitable for osteopathic physicians, osteopaths, chiropractors, manual therapists, physiotherapists, acupuncturists and massage therapists as well as general physicians working in primary care, physical medicine, rehabilitation, pain management and internal medicine.

Key Features

Offers practical and clinically relevant information to all practitioners and therapists working in the field

Edited by an international expert in pain management and trigger point therapy

Abundant use of pull-out boxes, line artwork, photographs and tables facilitates ease of understanding

Carefully prepared by a worldwide team of clinically active and research oriented contributors to provide helpful and clinically relevant information

Presents the latest research findings for many aspects of trigger point therapy

Provides a holistic view of patient care including the importance of patient communication and psychological aspects of pain control

Provides a handy reference for rapid and effective diagnosis and treatment of trigger points

Highlights the 65 most important muscles in a comprehensive practical style which includes anatomy, symptoms, pain patterns, physical examination and strategies for effective treatment

Offers an ideal resource for training courses in trigger point injection, osteopathy, manual therapy and acupuncture

Suitable for osteopathic physicians, osteopaths, chiropractors, manual therapists, acupuncturists and massage therapists as well as general physicians working in primary care, physical medicine, rehabilitation, pain management and internal medicine

1 The background

1 Guide to the book

2 Terminology

3 Epidemiology

3.1 Etiology of disease

3.2 Epidemiology

4 Etiology of myofascial pain syndrome

4.1 Causative factors

4.2 Perpetuating factors of myofascial pain

4.3 Chronification of myofascial pain

5 The anatomy and physiology of the muscles

5.1 Macroscopic construction

5.2 Function

5.3 Neurophysiology

6 Pathophysiology

6.1 Historical development

6.2 Underlying theories of pathophysiology

6.3 Specific pathophysiology

6.4 The extended integrated hypothesis

7 The trigger point as expression of a functional disorder of the locomotor system